Grade 5

Reading

Over these two weeks, students read through Chapters 7 to 18 of The Last Bear, following April and Bear as their friendship grows. They took part in pause points throughout the story, thinking about what the author wants us to know and noticing language such as similes and metaphors. In non-fiction reading, students researched the challenges polar bears face, including climate change, pollution and hunting, taking notes and sharing what they learned with a partner. They also practised reading aloud with good punctuation and accuracy.

Writing

Students practised building more interesting sentences by moving parts of a sentence around, joining ideas together, and using words like “if” and “unless” to show conditions. They also learned how connecting words can make writing sound more formal and help ideas flow from one sentence to the next. Students began planning their persuasive letters about protecting polar bears, starting with a strong introduction. They then moved on to planning body paragraphs that include a clear point, supporting details and facts from reliable sources.

Maths

Students learned how to collect information by writing survey questions, setting up tables and recording people’s answers. They practised drawing column graphs for larger numbers, using scales that count in 10s, and learned how to choose the best type of graph for their information. Students also practised reading and interpreting graphs and tables to answer questions and explain what the information shows. They completed a data assessment and began learning about percentages using a hundred grid.

Humanities

Students explored how time and money are limited, so people have to make choices, and worked in groups to plan a budget. They then learned about opportunity cost, which is what we give up when we choose one thing over another.

SEL

Students explored how family traditions and culture can shape ideas about gender, and how some of these ideas can feel unfair or limiting. They also looked at information that shows how everyone can help make our school a respectful place for all.

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